The parable of the talents ends with judgment, as the master evaluates what the three servants did with what was entrusted to them. What if we focus on the beginning of the parable, when each of the servants gets to choose what he's going to do? Their choices were based on their view of the master. Likewise, it's good for us to remember what God has entrusted to us, and to make choices that reflect our understanding of God: the One who is generous and gracious and calls us to take risks for the sake of the Gospel. This understanding of God should inspire us as we consider our financial pledges to the church for next year.
